Mishneh Torah, Foundations of the Torah 2

Shalom, friend! Ever wonder how to connect with something as vast and mysterious as God? It can feel a bit... intimidating, right? Today, we’re peeking into an ancient Jewish wisdom text that gives us a super simple starting point.

Context

• Who wrote it? Maimonides, a brilliant Jewish teacher from long ago.
• When? About 800 years ago, in the 12th century.
• Where? He lived and taught in places like Spain and Egypt.
• What is it? The Mishneh Torah, his huge work explaining Jewish law and thought. Our text talks about a Mitzvah: a commandment or good deed.

Text Snapshot

Maimonides writes: "It is a mitzvah to love and fear... God... What is the path [to attain] love and fear of Him? When a person contemplates His wondrous and great deeds and creations... he will immediately love... yearning... When he [continues] to reflect on these same matters, he will immediately recoil in awe and fear..." (Mishneh Torah, Foundations of the Torah 2:1 – https://www.sefaria.org/Mishneh_Torah%2C_Foundations_of_the_Torah_2)

Close Reading

Insight 1

Connecting with God isn't about solving complex puzzles or having special feelings. It often starts by just looking around at the amazing world He created!

Insight 2

That feeling of "wow" or "whoa" when you see a beautiful sunset, a tiny ant carrying a crumb, or even a clever invention? Maimonides says that's the beginning of love and awe for the Creator.

Apply It

This week, take 60 seconds each day to notice one wondrous thing. It could be a cloud, a leaf, a smile, or even your morning coffee. Just pause and appreciate it.

Chevruta Mini

• What's one thing in the natural world that always makes you stop and say "wow"?
• How might actively noticing small wonders change your everyday mood?

Takeaway

Our path to connecting with God often begins by simply noticing the wonder all around us.